Do you remember how you used to feel when you were just a little kid stepping into a candy shop? That feeling of being overwhelmed with excitement over all the sweet candies that awaited you. Well, that is synonymous with the feeling you get when you travel to China as an English teacher. Between the new experience, the new culture, and the new set of excited students that await you – it can almost feel like you are that little kid again walking into the candy shop. As a new teacher traveling to China, you have so many interesting things to look forward to. Although your trip and stay in the country may be filled with some nerves at the beginning, of course, but the excitement and the joy of a new experience will offset any nerves you may get. The experience is always exceptional when you are going to the country to teach a foreign language like English, which is why many teachers often dream of going to teach English in China. So, if you are thinking about teaching a foreign language like English abroad, here are a few of the innumerable reasons why China should be your priority.
The food is nothing shy of yummy
Feeding is no doubt one of the first few things you want to check out before moving to a new country. Well, you are probably familiar with Chinese food back home, but even that is nothing compared with the traditional Chinese food you will find in the country. From the incredible vegetable dishes to the melt-in-your-mouth roasted duck – there is always something for everyone’s palate in China. And of course, you will find all your Western dishes and fast-food brands scattered across town. So, China can still feel like a home away from home, and you will enjoy your teaching experiences like you never left your country.
Enthusiastic students
English learning is a very vital element in China, and as such, students are always eager to learn. In fact, many parents encourage their kids to study their English courses extensively because they have high hopes that their kids will be accepted into a university in the United States. For the most part, you can rest assured that the students you will encounter are enthusiastic and entertaining ones, who will appreciate the fact that you came down to their country to help shape their understanding of the language.
Fascinating culture
One of the most interesting things about teaching in China is that you become a resident and not just a tourist. You get to experience the day-to-day lifestyles of the Chinese people, and unlike a tourist, your exploration of the country is infinite. From the breathtaking views of some of the fascinating sceneries you can find anywhere in the world to the imperial architecture of the historical sites, you will definitely develop a wonderful sense of appreciation for your new environment.
Chance to learn Mandarin
Not many countries will allow you to come to teach or work in their country without having a basic understanding of their local language. China is one of those few countries. You don’t need to be fluent in Mandarin before you can hold a teaching position in the country. But even at that, who wouldn’t wish to add a second language to their resume? While it might seem like a daunting task at first, you will be surprised at how easy it is to speak and understand Mandarin once you become engulfed in the language.
You will be well-respected
As a teacher in many countries, being respected doesn’t go beyond the classroom. But, China has a special place for its foreign teachers. Western-teachers are in high-demand in China, and as such, the entire Chinese society will show you nothing short of absolute respect once you start teaching in their country. Chinese people have a deep-rooted respect for teachers because of how valuable they consider the profession to be, and teachers are seen as authoritative figures in the society.
Job opportunities are numerous, and they all offer perks and benefits
Due to the large size of the country, there is no shortage of destinations for you as an English teacher. From Guangdong to Shanghai, and several local regions in between, you can select from the numerous English teaching positions available. You will find several English teaching positions that offer great pay, wonderful teaching hours, and further benefits. Some of the perks that come with many of these positions include: generous house concession or comfy rent-free apartment, paid holidays, sick leave, flight reimbursement, airfare allowance, and lots more.
Budget-friendly cost of living
Perhaps this is the one you’ve been longing to find. Well, you should be glad to know that the cost of living in China is generally affordable, albeit it depends on the area or city you choose to work and live in. Larger cities like Shanghai and Beijing have a higher cost of living, but their institutions compensate for this by offering their teachers higher pay. However, teaching salaries are rapidly rising in China at the moment, so you should be able to save a large chunk of whatever you are earning.
Endless teaching opportunities
Depending on your personal preference, and salary expectations, teaching opportunities are endless in China. English teachers in China can choose from private schools, public schools, private language institutes, international schools, tutoring, university, or even kindergartens.
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